Gypsy Chef - Eileen Jacobson

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Eileen Jacobson, Owner of Breck Chefs & Baked Jakes Granola, located in Breckenridge, CO, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We run a private chef/catering company as well as a small-batch granola company. The majority of our customers are vacationing in Summit County, Colorado, and are interested in elevated private dinners and special events.

Tell us about yourself

Prior to the pandemic, I was the executive chef of a catering company in Nantucket, MA, during the summer and offered private chef services in Breckenridge, CO, in the winter. As is the story for many, everything changed in March of 2020. We decided to put down roots in Colorado and make our business our primary focus. For decades I worked for others in many areas of F&B. Every day, I am motivated, knowing that everything minute that I put into my work will benefit me, my family, and the amazing people willing to work with us.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I think my greatest accomplishment was being able to start the granola business when the pandemic shut down catering operations. Our industry was in upheaval, and I had to take a leap of faith.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

For me, the hardest part of being a business owner is carving out personal time. I know that many people want to start a business of their own, thinking they will have more work-life balance. That balance can be very difficult to maintain.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

1. Have a heart-to-heart with the people closest to you. Make sure that they are 100% onboard.
2. Don't underestimate how much of your life can be consumed by your business.
3. Be patient. Don't get ahead of yourself. Take pleasure in every win, even the small ones.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website:
https://breckchefs.com/
https://bakedjakes.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/breckchefs/
https://www.instagram.com/bakedjakesgranola/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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